Co-parenting can be very difficult and stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Many parents let the emotions they have for their ex cloud their judgment, which can lead to each parent caring more about being better than the other instead of working together for the sake of their children. Here are a few tips to consider that could possibly make co-parenting in Illinois less stressful.
Treat Your Ex As A Business Partner
Instead of viewing your ex as someone you had a failed relationship with, view them as a business partner with whom you are working to give your child a good life. Just because your relationship didn’t work out doesn’t mean that you and your ex can’t be great parents. This mentality will allow you to communicate with your co-parent and decide what’s best for the child instead of thinking of ways to get your kid to see you as the better parent.
Find A Good Way To Communicate
Communication is the most important thing you need to master when it comes to co-parenting. Clear communication is vital so that you both are informed of everything that is going on with your children. You should be able to discuss every issue regarding them, including your child custody schedules, how the kids are performing academically, any medical issues they may have and even whether there are behavioral problems.
Not communicating with your co-parent about these things can have devastating results such as not knowing — because your ex never informed you — that your child is allergic to a certain food. It might be hard to talk to someone with whom you’ve had a failed relationship. If you can’t work things out in person, figure out another way to communicate. Whether it’s speaking on the phone, texting or sending emails back and forth, it is crucial that you two are always informing each other.
If you are in a situation where you are separating from your spouse and you need to figure out exactly what’s going to happen to your children, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a family law attorney to make sure everything gets sorted out. The personal problems between the parents shouldn’t hamper the children’s life or development. Although it may be difficult, being a successful co-parent will be extremely satisfying as your child grows up to be a smart, well-adjusted adult.